Orlando L. Alaniz

Orlando L. Alaniz, 87, of Falfurrias, TX, passed peacefully away in his sleep Tuesday, July 4th, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. It was also the 7th anniversary of our Mother’s passing. He was a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother who will be dearly missed by all. A thrill seeker, he had a true zest for life. He lived his passion and excitement he had for life on a daily basis.

Our Dad was very competitive. As a young man, he competed in rodeos riding broncos and bulls. At the age of 40 he picked up running and competed in many races and acquired many trophies and metals. He took pride in his accomplishments. He passed his zest for life to his children and grandchildren. He encouraged us to take risks, try new things and live life to the fullest. Our dad taught his children to try sports and build skills like riding horses, goat tying, barrel racing, mechanical bull riding, running, snow skiing, swimming, tennis, and the list goes on. He was our biggest fan and very supportive of our dreams. He believed in us.

Dad would always say, “the older I get the more of a fitness fanatic I will become.” He loved to challenge himself.

He was a running cowboy…A cowboy at heart (literally and figuratively) and a runner by nature. He was a little bit of a show off too. He loved displaying all the trophies and medals he won from various races and would let you know exactly how he beat all the younger men in his age bracket. He also loved training and riding horses and would show off his skill by standing on his horse and by standing behind his horse (which he made sure we knew never to do). He was so proud when his children and grandchildren would compete and succeed in anything and they were very proud of him too.

Orlando is survived by his sister Dora Garza (husband Tony); his 4 children: Annette Garcia (husband Gustavo), Orlando J. Alaniz, Diana Correa (husband Raul), and Carla Wyss (husband James); his 6 grandchildren: Joshua Garcia, Krystal Martinez, Ian Ruderman, Madison, Morgan, and Preston Wyss; and 2 great-grandchildren: Jacob and Zachary Martinez.

Pallbearers will be Orlando J. Alaniz, Gustavo Garcia, Joshua Garcia, Jim Wyss, Preston Wyss and Ian Ruderman.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at the Funeraria Del Angel Howard Williams in Falfurrias officiated by Pastor Roger Sherwood and How Great Thou art will be sung by Natalie Sherwood with Visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. Burial with follow at the Falfurrias Burial Park.